Letters

Regarding “East End Supervisors and Mayors Call for LIRR Infrastructure Improvements for Commuter Connection” [27east.com, August 19]: There already exists a proven system of diesel-powered, multi-unit light rail transport. Single- and two-car diesel-powered trains are currently in operation in Ottawa, Canada, Trenton, New Jersey (River Line), and several areas of California. These diesel-engined one- and two-car trains use existing track and storage facilities.

Adopting this system would negate the need to construct new, larger platforms on the East End. Any necessary bypasses could be three cars long, as opposed to 10-plus cars long. Diesel-powered, multi-unit light rail transport — or DMU light rail — could easily co-exist with the larger trains needed during peak demand periods.

A transfer platform, perhaps in Patchogue, where the south shore dual track ends, would allow passengers to board the one- and two-car trains and travel east, or, conversely, board larger trains to points west.

DMU is a much cheaper and more efficient system than what is being sought. DMU also has the advantage that it can be made operational quickly. Most of the necessary infrastructure and rolling stock already exists.

A historical note: In the late 1950s, the LIRR successfully used Budd cars — diesel-powered single-car trains — on the south shore line.

Ed Pavlak

Speonk